Picture this scenario: You need to move some lab chemicals across campus. No big deal, right? You grab a few students to help load the bottles into a cart—no protective clothing or goggles needed since you’re just transferring them from one cupboard to another.

But then, curiosity gets the better of one of the students. They pick up a bottle labeled "picric acid," noticing crystals around the lid. Without thinking, they attempt to open it—then BOOM!

Moving a laboratory and its contents is a high-risk process, especially when handling hazardous chemicals. If proper procedures aren’t followed, accidents can result in injury, property damage or worse. Understanding how to safely relocate chemicals is crucial. Below are six key steps to ensure your students and employees safely move chemicals when moving to a new lab:

1. Conduct a pre-move inspection and inventory.
2. Locate the Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS).
3. Plan the move.
4. Properly prepare chemicals for transport.
5. Perform safe handling of compressed gas cylinders.
6. Be prepared for unexpected events.

Conduct a Pre-Move Inspection and Inventory

Before relocating toxic chemicals, a thorough inspection and inventory are essential. Whether lab personnel or a professional environmental services company handles the move, you must first assess the materials being transported.

• Create a list of chemicals, including their type (e.g., acid, base, reactive, toxic) and quantity.
• Ensure all containers are correctly labeled.
• Inspect the condition of each container, looking for leaks, cracks, or damage.
• Examine caps and closure seals for crystal formation. Do not attempt to open or move containers with visible crystals, as they may indicate a dangerous chemical reaction.
• Check for signs of decomposition inside containers. Some chemicals, such as ethers and organic peroxides, can form explosive peroxides over time.

Locate the Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS)

Each chemical being moved should have a corresponding Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) to provide critical information on handling, storage and emergency response.

Key details to review include:

• Boiling point and vapor pressure – Understanding at what temperature the chemical may become a gas.
• Vapor density – Determines how the chemical behaves in air and its risk for inhalation hazards.
• Appearance, odor and volatility – Important for identifying leaks or spills.
• Storage and handling guidelines – Specific safety precautions for moving each substance.

Proper knowledge of these properties ensures chemicals are transported in a manner that minimizes risks.

Step 3: Plan the Move

A well-thought-out plan can prevent accidents. Follow these guidelines:

• Assess whether lab personnel can safely handle the move or if an environmental services company should be hired.
• Prioritize which materials should be moved first and identify any that should be disposed of instead of relocated (e.g., expired, damaged, or unnecessary chemicals).
• Choose a safe route. Avoid high-traffic areas and, if possible, minimize the use of stairways to reduce spill risks.

Properly Prepare Chemicals for Transport

To minimize hazards:

• Wear personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, goggles and lab coats.
• Group chemicals by hazard class. Do not transport incompatible substances together (e.g., acids with oxidizers or bases with flammables).
• Transfer chemicals from deteriorating or leaking containers to new, properly labeled containers.
• Use appropriate packing materials, such as vermiculite, absorbent pads, or original packaging boxes, to cushion containers.
• If using a cart, ensure it has safety rails to prevent spills, and place heavier containers on the bottom rack.
• Carry a spill kit for immediate response in case of leaks or breakages.

Perform Safe Handling of Compressed Gas Cylinders

Compressed cylinders require special precautions:

• Remove regulators before moving.
• Secure valve covers in place.
• Use a cylinder dolly specifically designed for transporting gas cylinders, ensuring they are properly chained or strapped.
• Never lay cylinders on their sides, as this can cause liquid contents to enter the valve, potentially leading to an explosive release.

Be Prepared for Unexpected Events

Even with careful planning, unforeseen circumstances can arise. Minimize risks by:

• Keeping chemicals under supervision at all times during transport.
• Being aware of your surroundings—watch for doorways, tight corners, or obstructions.
• Taking precautions in bad weather—if moving outdoors, ensure chemicals are protected from rain or extreme temperatures.
• Having emergency contact numbers and a spill response plan ready.

A lab relocation isn’t just about moving from point A to point B—it’s about ensuring safety at every step. If the task appears too complex or risky, partnering with a licensed hazardous waste disposal company is the best course of action.

Professional hazardous waste disposal providers offer expertise in:

• Safe chemical handling and transport.
• Compliance with federal and state regulations.
• Emergency hazmat response should an accident occur.

Establishing a relationship with a disposal company before an incident occurs ensures you have trained professionals ready to assist in case of a spill, contamination or unforeseen chemical reaction. Their experience in hazardous materials management can protect your staff, students, and facility from unnecessary risks.

By following these best practices and working with experts when needed, you can ensure that your lab relocation is conducted safely, efficiently and in full compliance with safety regulations.